Poole is Full of Life for Older People’s Day

Poole will be playing host to a range of exciting activities as the town celebrates Older People’s Day on Wednesday 1 October.

Held every year, the day is a celebration of the achievements and contributions that older people make to society and the economy. With activities intended to help older residents remain ‘Full of Life’, the day will be marked with events at Poole Central Library, the Wellbeing Shop in the Dolphin Centre (adjacent to Thornton's) and Falkland Square from 10am - 3pm.

Just some of the activities available include knitting and crochet, watercolour painting, square dancing and senior fitness sessions and a free performance from the Sing Together Choir. Visitors can have a go at the U3A Table Tennis Challenge, or relax with hand massages and manicures. Local partners will be on hand to provide a host of information and advice on how to stay healthy and active in later life.

Cllr Karen Rampton, cabinet portfolio holder for Adult Social Care, Borough of Poole said: “We know our residents are living longer, and the activities at Wednesday’s event will show that there are a wealth of interesting new hobbies, as well as help and support, available to everyone in later life. Older people form an integral part of our local community, and we are keen to do all we can to help them lead active, independent and fulfilled lives.”

Cllr Charles Meachin, the Council’s Older People’s Champion, said: “Keeping people independent and active is an important issue for Poole. We hope to see many people on Wednesday taking advantage of the activities and advice on offer."

The day will also see the public launch of the My Life My Care website, bringing together advice and information about care services for all the people of Dorset. My Life My Care aims to help people lead independent lives with the support they need to do so and features a wide range of information, from how to access help around the home to personal care services, dealing with money worries, keeping mobile and staying safe.

The website has been developed by Dorset County Council in partnership with Bournemouth Borough Council and Borough of Poole, and is for all adults in Dorset, whether they qualify for financial support or pay for their own care. Users will find tips and advice on health and wellbeing, as well as information about transport, home adaptations, daily living aids and much more to help people make informed choices.

To find out more, log onto www.mylifemycare.com. Further details regarding the Full of Life activities are available at www.boroughofpoole.com/fulloflife